Commercial truck accidents are often deadly. Due to their size and weight, 18 wheelers can cleave a path of destruction. Victims who are lucky enough to survive often require months of rehabilitation and time off work. Some never make full recoveries.
If you drive a passenger vehicle, it is essential that you are cautious when travelling near a semi-truck. Here are five reasons why:
- Excessive size and weight;
- Dangerous cargo;
- Driver fatigue;
- Driver distractions;
- And poor maintenance.
If you were injured by a negligent truck driver in Louisiana, contact Morris Bart, LLC. A Lake Charles accident attorney will evaluate your case to determine if you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages and noneconomic damages.
We can gather evidence, interview witnesses, structure your claim and handle settlement negotiations on your behalf. Call 800-537-8185 to schedule a free consultation.
Until then, read on to learn why passenger vehicle drivers should be cautious around commercial trucks:
Excessive Size and Weight
Trucks are significantly larger and heavier than passenger vehicles. According to the Federal Highway Administration, the maximum weight a single axle truck on the Interstate Highway System can be is 20,000 pounds. The gross vehicle weight of a truck cannot exceed 80,000 pounds.
Trucks are often 20 to 30 times heavier than passenger vehicles, so they require a longer stopping distance. Also, their high center of gravity makes them prone to rollovers.
For a free legal consultation, call 800-537-8185
Dangerous Cargo
Cargo can cause a truck to tip over, or it can come lose and cause an accident behind the truck. Some commercial vehicles transport dangerous cargo such as flammable materials.
Although truckers and trucking companies must balance their cargo to keep other road users safe, this does not always happen. In these cases, the victims may have grounds for personal-injury claims.
Driver Fatigue
Many truckers work long hours and face tough deadlines. These can lead to driver fatigue, which is a leading cause of accidents in the United States.
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Driver Distractions
Distracted driving is a common cause of road accidents involving commercial trucks. Because they spend so much time behind the wheel, truck drivers are susceptible to several distractions including eating and drinking and cell phone use.
Poor Maintenance
Commercial truckers often travel thousands of miles each year, so their vehicles require regular maintenance. Without ongoing maintenance, truckers are more likely to crash.
Federal law requires commercial truckers and trucking companies to maintain their vehicles within strict guidelines at all times. If they fail to do so and this causes an accident, the victims may have grounds for personal-injury claims.
If you were injured in a crash that another motorist or truck driver caused, contact Morris Bart, LLC. A Lake Charles accident lawyer will handle the legal aspects of your claim so you can focus on recovery. Call 800-537-8185 to schedule a free initial consultation.
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to find a Morris Bart office near you.
